Cause of Death for Teen Lina Identified as Likely Strangulation with Tote Bag Straps
The 15-year-old's body was discovered in October 2024 after her 2023 disappearance, with new forensic evidence pointing to mechanical strangulation and a sole suspect who died by suicide.
- Forensic analysis suggests Lina, 15, was likely strangled using the straps of a tote bag, though the exact cause of death could not be definitively confirmed due to body degradation.
- The teenager's body was found in October 2024 in a wooded area near Nevers, over a year after her disappearance in September 2023 in Alsace.
- Medical examiners ruled out drowning as a cause of death, citing a horizontal mark under her chin and tissue around her neck consistent with strangulation.
- DNA evidence linked Lina and the primary suspect, Samuel Gonin, to ropes found in his car; Gonin died by suicide in July 2024 before he could be questioned.
- Investigators believe Gonin acted alone, but the case remains under review to address unresolved questions, with a conclusion expected by mid-2025.
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